When a person causes a collision due to drunk driving, they are typically held responsible for the consequences of their actions. However, there are situations where others—particularly businesses that serve alcohol—may share in that responsibility. This concept is known as “dram shop liability,” and it plays a critical role in many drunk driving accident cases in Tennessee.
Under Tennessee law, if a bar, restaurant, or any business licensed to serve alcohol continues to serve someone who is visibly intoxicated, and that person later causes injury or death in a car crash, the business can be held liable. This law is in place to encourage responsible alcohol service and to give victims and their families another path to recover the compensation they deserve.
At its core, dram shop liability is about accountability. Establishments that profit from alcohol sales also have a duty to ensure they are not contributing to dangerous and preventable situations. When they fail in this duty, victims should not have to bear the burden alone.
To hold a business liable under Tennessee's dram shop statute, several specific criteria must be met. First, the establishment must be a licensed seller of alcoholic beverages. That includes bars, restaurants, clubs, and other commercial venues. Private hosts or social gatherings typically do not fall under this law.
Second, the business must have served alcohol to someone who was “visibly intoxicated.” This legal standard refers to obvious signs of impairment—slurred speech, glassy or bloodshot eyes, unsteady balance, erratic behavior, or other noticeable indicators that the person should not be served any more alcohol.
Lastly, there must be a direct connection between the person’s intoxication and the injuries suffered in the crash. That means the impaired person must have gone on to cause a motor vehicle accident where someone else was harmed or killed.
This three-part test can be challenging to prove, especially without legal guidance. Proving visible intoxication and linking it to the accident requires quick and thorough investigation—something that experienced injury attorneys are equipped to handle.
Being struck by a drunk driver often results in serious injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial hardship. Medical bills can add up quickly, income may be lost due to time off work, and the psychological impact can last long after physical wounds have healed. While the at-fault driver may face criminal charges, that doesn’t automatically provide compensation to victims.
Dram shop claims offer another avenue for justice—especially in cases where the driver’s insurance policy is too limited to cover the full extent of the damages. Bars and restaurants typically carry commercial liability insurance policies with higher coverage limits. When they contribute to a person’s intoxication and that person causes harm, their insurers may be held responsible for covering losses.
These claims can also serve a greater purpose. They reinforce the importance of safe alcohol service and can prevent future tragedies by encouraging establishments to train staff properly, enforce service limits, and take customer behavior seriously.
At Glenn Injury Law, we take these cases seriously. We fight for victims who are left suffering because a business failed to follow basic safety principles. Our team works tirelessly to investigate every potential source of liability and maximize the financial recovery our clients receive.
Bringing a successful claim against a business requires more than suspicion—it demands clear and convincing evidence. The sooner you act after a crash, the better the chances of gathering the necessary proof. Here are some types of evidence that may be crucial:
It’s important to work with an attorney who knows how to gather and preserve this kind of evidence quickly. Footage may be deleted, and memories can fade. Acting early improves the chances of building a strong case.
Dram shop cases are not about punishing businesses—they’re about justice for victims. If a company chose profits over public safety, they should be held accountable for the consequences.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash involving a drunk driver, it’s important to explore every legal option available. At Glenn Injury Law, we understand the devastating toll these accidents can take on victims and families. That’s why we fight aggressively to uncover the full story, identify every responsible party, and secure the compensation our clients deserve.
Whether the driver was overserved at a bar or a restaurant failed to act on obvious warning signs, you may have a valid dram shop claim. Our team will investigate, advise you of your rights, and help you move forward with confidence.
Don’t let negligent businesses escape responsibility. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and speak directly with an experienced personal injury attorney.
